Tony-winning actress Mercedes Ruehl begins performances in the American premiere of Moira Buffini's Dinner July 7 at the Bay Street Theatre.

Mercedes Ruehl
Photo by Aubrey Reuben

David Esbjornson (The Goat, Our Country's Good) directs the stinging comedy, which officially opens July 11 and runs through Aug. 2. The production previously played a well-received London run in 2002. Ruehl (The Goat, American Plan, Lost in Yonkers) leads a cast that also features Daniel Gerroll, J. Smith-Cameron, Reed Birney, Laura Campbell and Brian Hutchison.

Bay Street press notes read: "A dinner party from hell is the focus of this wicked satirical comedy, where caustic comments fly like poisonous darts across the dinner table. The playwright reminds us that 'revenge is a dish best served cold,' but at this dinner party it is served frozen."

Dinner has set design by Troy Hourie, lighting by Ben Stanton, costumes by Elizabeth Hope Clancy and sound design by Mark Bennett.

Tickets can be purchased by calling (631) 725-9500 or by visiting BayStreet.